NATALIE AND JOHNATHON'S WEDDING

October, 2007 in San Diego

"We live in San Diego, so having the wedding where we live made it less stressful than planning long distance. 75% of our wedding guests were friends & family from out of state. Most of them had never been to California before, so our venue really knocked their socks off."

Ceremony:

"Our wedding ceremony took place at a park on the side of Mount Soledad, with a spectacular view of the San Diego skyline, bay & ocean. We also had a great view of Sea World's fireworks at 10pm, which seemed like a private show just for us to close out our reception."

Hotel:

"We got a room for ourselves at Catamaran in the tower. The view was fantastic. The room could use a little updating, but the location, view, service & brunch on Sunday were all first rate. I would highly recommend it."

Hotel:

"This little Inn at the cliffs is only a block from our apartment, and served as a fantastic place for our family to stay. It's not in the heart of any nightlife, but the views are wonderful. It's very convenient to Sea World, airport, downtown, San Diego Zoo, and many other attractions."

Attraction:

"This is where we got engaged. Catalina is about 2 hours from where we live. You can catch the ferry at Long Beach or Dana Point. Allow about 1.5 hrs to drive and about 45 minutes for the boat ride to the island.
Located just 22 miles off the coast of Southern California, Catalina Island-with its Mediterranean charm and myriad of exciting activities-provides a quick and easy getaway. Travel time to Avalon, the Island's only city, can be done in as little as 15 minutes by air, or one hour by boat. Travel time to the village of Two Harbors is about 90 minutes by boat from San Pedro."

Attraction:

Attraction:

"Ensenada, Baja California, located just 70 short miles south of San Diego is the perfect weekend getaway. First discovered in 1542 by Portuguese navigator Don Juan Rodriguez, Ensenada was known as a small fishing village and the home of Hussongs Cantina and Papas & Beer until just recently, when it was selected from a handful of elite Baja cities to become Baja Norte's weekend Hot Spot."

Attraction:

Attraction:

"There are a lot of great art galleries in La Jolla, as well as shops, restaurants and beautiful beaches. Torrey Pines Golf Course will host the 2008 Masters.
My favorite La Jolla attraction is the cove where the seals and seal lions hang out. Seals and sea lions are often found on or near the beach at the Children's Pool during Fall, Winter, and Spring. They are wild animals you can watch, but may not disturb."

Attraction:

"The 4900 block of Newport Ave. is blocked off every Wednesday all year long to host the Farmer's Market. Farmer's come from as far away as Fresno to offer fresh fruits & veggies at great prices. I also see vendors with fresh fish and flowers for sale.
Admission is always free to this fun event. There are also rides for the kids, including the always popular llama rides."

Attraction:

Attraction:

"Just 20 miles south of the California border, Rosarito is part of the Tourist Corridor that includes Tijuana, Ensenada and Rosarito.
Home to some of the most diverse shopping in Baja, visitors may browse through more than 500 stores offering baked goods, Mexican folk art, ceramics, silver, leather, wool and other unusual gifts."

Attraction:

"This is the town just across the Mexico border. Tijuana is about a 20 minute drive south from where we live. You can take the trolley to the border and walk across, or drive to the border and walk across. Driving across the border is not recommended due to insurance restrictions.
Tijuana can be a fun day trip, but use caution. This is where a lot of young kids go to party, and it can be shady if you go to the wrong places.
A little further south, you will find Rosarito and Ensenada a little nicer."

Local Beach:

Wedding Reception:

"Soledad Club is in a great location. The view from the patio is amazing. Wonderful view of Sea World's fireworks make you feel like the show is just for you & your guests. Interior design is the only thing I don't like. Ceiling tiles & florescent lighting (yuck). But if you have the money for professional lighting/decor, this could really be an amazing location. Staff is easy to deal with, and they give you all day to set up."